Using a Low-Flow Extracorporeal Carbon Dioxide Removal (ECCO 2 R) System in the Management of Refractory Status Asthmaticus: A Case Series.

Rescue treatments for status asthmaticus remain limited. Current literature has mainly focused on using extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) as a primary modality of care for these patients. Low-flow extracorporeal CO 2 removal (ECCO 2 R) systems are an attractive option to improve refractory hypercapnic respiratory acidosis because of status asthmaticus.

On the horizon: Extracorporeal carbon dioxide removal.

Extracorporeal carbon dioxide removal (ECCOR) uses mechanical systems to treat hypercapnic respiratory failure. Its utility has been investigated in acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and status asthmaticus, and as a bridge to lung transplant. In this review, we discuss how it works, why it should help, and current evidence supporting its use.